What is Special About Jaipur Top 10 Attractions

Jaipur, the pink city, has played a major role in the Indian History. Being the land of Maharajas, the city is dotted with numerous forts, palaces, temples, etc. These structures are praised for unique architectural brilliance and story associated with the same. Thus, to make the visitors enjoy the best of the Indian heritage, there are numerous heritage hotels located close to the attractions. Here are some of the popular attractions of Jaipur with popular heritage hotels in Jaipur located in proximity.

Amber Fort and Palace

Amber Fort and Palace, located at a very short distance of 11 km from Jaipur city, was the stronghold of the ruling Kachwahas of Amber, prior to shifting of the capital to the plains (Jaipur). The attraction also features the perfect mix of Hindu and Mughal style of architecture. In 1592, the fort and the palace were constructed by Raja Man Singh I and was completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh. Red sand stone and white marble are used in the construction of the magnificent structure.

There are impressive paintings showcased on the interior wall of the palace. Along with this, there also are carvings, precious stones and mirror settings featured in the interior of the structure. The Maota Lake in the foreground enhances the beauty of the entire setting. Thus, for guests looking for accommodation close to this romantic aura structure, Umaid Mahal is one of the best heritage hotels of India.

Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal, also known as the ‘Palace Of The Winds’, is one of the major tourist attractions in Jaipur. This attraction is located in the heart of the city and is a beautiful five-storey palace structure, built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799. The Maharaja belonged to the Kachhwaha Rajput dynasty. Lal Chand Ustad, the architect of the palace, used red and pink sandstone in the construction. It is believed that the facade of the palace is constructed like the crown of Lord Krishna (the Hindu deity).

Featuring about 953 ‘Jharokhas’ or windows, the structure is one of the finest specimen of Rajputana architecture. This palace was mainly contracted for the royal ladies to view the royal processions and happenings on the streets without being seen by the commoners. Alsisar Haveli is the nearest heritage hotel in Jaipur, praised for offering excellent accommodation.

Jantar Mantar

Amongst various observatories in the world, Jantar Mantar (Jaipur) is considered one of the largest observatories ever built. Jantar Mantar showcases the perfect mix of religion, art and science. The name Jantar Mantar is given to a series of five magnificent structures built in Jaipur, Ujjan, New Delhi, Mathura and Varanasi. When this structure was built in Jaipur, Maharaja Jai Singh II was in power (around 1720’s).

This Jantar Mantar (Jaipur) is considered as the largest observatories and features the largest sundial of the world. Maharaja’s interest in the Universe and the Cosmos is the major reason behind the construction of the astronomical observatory. ‘Yantar Mantar’ is the name derived from Sanskrit dialect which means ‘instruments’ and ‘formula’ respectively. Later the term ‘Yantra’ was replaced with ‘Jantar’ meaning ‘magical’. Thus, the Shahpura House is a popular heritage hotel close to the attraction for guests looking for a comfortable stay.

Birla Mandir

Birla Mandir, also known as the Lakshmi-Narayan Temple, is located just below the Moti Dungari. Dominating the skyline of the South Jaipur, this is a modern temple on top of a hill, constructed with white marble. This temple was built by the Birlas (industrialists who have also built several temples in India). The temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu (One of the Hindu Trinity Gods), also called as Narayan and his consort Goddess Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth and Good Fortune). One could find various carved structures of mythological images of saints and themes.

On the other hand, the interior of the temple features large panel made of marble, depicting mythological proceedings. The idols of the deities are placed on raised ground in sanctum sanctorum, surrounded by lush green gardens. Visitors can book their rooms in Naila Bagh Palace Heritage Home Hotel, which is located near to the temple.

Jaigarh Fort

Jaigarh Fort in Jaipur was regarded as the stronghold constructed by Sawan Jai Singh II. This intact fort is encircled by huge battlements and is also connected to the Amer Fort through subterranean passages. The main motive being the construction of the fort was to protect the Amer Fort and the Palace within the complex. Jaigarh Fort has been constructed similarly in terms of architecture to that of the Amer Fort. The fort also becomes a must visit as it provides a panoramic view of the Jaipur city.

The world’s largest cannon on wheels, housed in the fort, also make this a popular tourist attraction. The palace is also must-visit due to its features such as the palace complex, ‘Shubhat Niwas’ – the assembly hall, a museum and an armory. The intricate architecture of the fort is worth appreciation and thus, the story of the huge treasure buried under the fort also makes the fort popular amidst tourists. Achrol Lodge/House is one of the finest luxury hotels in Jaipur, located in proximity with the attraction.

City Palace

City Palace is one of the major historical attractions, located in the heart of Jaipur city. ‘Mubarak Mahal’ and ‘Chandra Mahal’ are the popular attractions of the city palace complex. The beautiful palace complex was built by Sawai Jai Singh II between 1729 and 1732 AD. He had empowerment over Amer and built the outer walls of the palace. Other rulers thereafter added various architectural masterpieces in the palace complex. Till the 20th century, the additions were made in the complex.

The architecture reflects the perfect fusion of Rajput, European and Mughal styles. The ‘Chandra Mahal’ has now been converted into a museum, which features various uniforms of the rulers, unique handcrafted products, and various other things that pertain to the royal heritage of the City Palace. If you want to explore the best of the Palace Complex, Umaid Mahal is the right heritage hotel to look for accommodation in Jaipur.

Jal Mahal

‘Water Palace’ is the exact translation of the Jal Mahal, located in the midst of the Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur city. The beautiful palace and the lake surrounding it was enlarged and renovated by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Amber in the 18th century. The palace makes the onlooker spellbound with its magnificent beauty.  In the lake, the guests can also find traditionally crafted Rajput style wooden boats made by the boat-makers from Vrindavan.

The fragrant Chameli Bagh, crossing the decorated chambers hallways on the first floor, is one of the major attractions of the palace. Further, the beauty of the location is enhanced by the Aravalli Hills across the lake. If you are looking for accommodation close to this Jal Mahal, Samode Haveli is a heritage hotel praised for offering excellent stay in Jaipur.

Nahargarh Fort

Nahargarh Fort, situated on the rugged ridges of Aravali Hills, forms a very impressive backdrop of Jaipur. During the night, the fort showcases its magnificent charm as the entire fort is illuminated using the floodlights. The fort was built in 1734 by Jai Singh and later extended in 1868. Sawai Madho Singh built the Madhavendra Bhawan with a unique cluster of 12 identical suites for queens and a suite at the head for the king himself.

These rooms are connected via corridors and feature some delicate frescoes and kitchen hearths and toilets. This was also regarded as a summer retreat by various royal families and today, the attraction is considered as a favorite picnic spot in Jaipur. Thus, to enjoy the best of the heritage, you can book your rooms in the popular heritage hotel, Bissau Palace, which is located at a very short distance.